Healthy travel

From Baja Verapaz to Quiche, Guatemala's beauty and culture cannot be rivaled. Historical and cultural sites fill visitors with a sense of awe and wonder. It is like none other, its diversity unmatched.

To fully enjoy your stay in Guatemala , be sure to remain as safe as you possibly can. Be sure that your hotel or home is free of dangerous minerals like asbestos and lead.

Older homes and hotels all over the world were often constructed using a natural mineral called asbestos. Asbestos can be found in dry wall, insulation, and tile in countries like the US, China, the UK, and Guatemala, as well as many, many others. When asbestos is disturbed, its fibers are released into the air and can be ingested or inhaled.

Asbestos fibers build up in the lungs or stomach, causing a cancer: mesothelioma. Mesothelioma symptoms include shortness of breath and chest heaviness. Because these symptoms are often latent for 20-50 years, mesothelioma victims are unaware that they even have the illness. For those who may be experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma, it's important to get tested immediately. If you have not yet experienced symptoms, doing your best to avoided asbestos exposure can ensure that you live a life free of mesothelioma and its consequences.

Lead is a natural element found in the earth, often used in pipes and paint. It can also be found in soil, water, and household or hotel dust. Ingesting lead can result in lead poisoning. Symptoms include memory loss, abdominal pain, irritation, trouble sleeping, and a loss of appetite. In children, the damages of lead poisoning can be serious.

If you suspect lead poisoning, see a doctor to have blood work done. If the test is positive, speak with your physician about dietary changes necessary for re-balancing health. If unchecked, lead poisoning symptoms can become permanent and dietary changes may not be able to re-stabilize health. To avoid lead poisoning, be sure to keep your eyes open for mesothelioma symptoms and to inquire as to whether your hotel uses lead paint or lead-lined appliances.

Ensure that your journey to Guatemala is undeterred by the threat of natural toxins. Simply contact your accommodation providers and inquire about the possibilities of asbestos and lead. With the beauty, music, and food of Guatemala at your finger tips, there should be no anxiety over exposure to toxins. Enjoy your health and enjoy Guatemala!